SAN DIEGO- Three years ago, Petty Officer 2nd Class Carlos Trapalamagana joined the Navy because he wanted a stepping stone after he graduated high school. He is now serving aboard USS Boxer.
Trapalamagana is an aviation support equipment technician who is responsible for maintaining equipment that supports the aircraft. “My favorite part about my job is doing maintenance, upkeep and fixing equipment that is down,” said Trapalamagana.
Trapalamagana is a 2016 Bell High School graduate and native of Los Angeles, California.
According to Trapalamagana, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Los Angeles.
“LA taught me to be a hardworking, ambitious leader,” said Trapalamagana.
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Boxer is an amphibious assault ship that has recently returned from a Western Pacific-Indian Ocean-Persian Gulf deployment. It is the sixth ship to carry the name Boxer.
Amphibious assault ships are used to transfer Marines, equipment and supplies and can support helicopters or other aircraft. They also are capable of accessing 75% of the world’s beaches.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Trapalamagana is most proud of serving overseas in Japan with his first command.
“It is something I have always wanted to do since I joined the Navy and it got me out of my comfort zone,” said Trapalamagana.
Trapalamagana is the first member of his family to serve in the military.
“If anyone in my family wants to serve I can give them insight on how the military is and how great it treated me,” said Trapalamagana
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Trapalamagana, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me because I have always wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself and to defend the county,” said Trapalamagana. “It has helped me work with others, to contribute to the military and accomplish missions.”